Should we be switching to Chicken for the Thanksgiving table?

G’day Legend!

It is that week, where it is technically work, but you are slightly switched off… and you are already thinking about the three epic games of football you get to watch over the course of the day with too much food… just me? I had a bunch of people tag me already in the airport endeavors after reading last weeks newsletter on foods to target at the airport (sorry it came on a Thursday, I was backed up from Hyrox). Plenty of boiled eggs… big fan. Jumping to this holiday edition of Legendary

Every year the turkey has its awesome moment… its traditional.. its monumental.. but do we actually like it and is it the best option for our performance?

Today’s Newsletter (4 min read):

• 🦃 Break down pros/cons of Turkey vs Chicken

• 🥘 Tips to never avoid when cooking your bird

• 💪 Tell you how to win the Centr Vest

If you know someone Cooking up a bird this week, share this newsletter with them (you could help them crush that Thanksgiving meal and they can help you win a Breville oven)! Keep reading to win that Centr Vest!

Turkey vs. Chicken: The Great Debate

If you are responsible for the cooking this year, I have three tips for you to never avoid so keep reading. We have a more in depth piece around Turkey vs Chicken dropping on insta tomorrow, in my This or That series on Instagram. Lets dive in

Nutrition showdown

• Protein Content: Turkey provides slightly more protein than chicken, with 26 grams versus 24 grams per 3-ounce serving, making it a leaner choice for those seeking a protein boost with fewer calories.

• Fat & Calorie Profile: Turkey is slightly leaner than chicken, with fewer calories (135 vs. 140) and less fat (1 gram vs. 3 grams) per 3-ounce serving, making it a better choice for calorie-conscious eaters, though both are excellent low-fat options.

• Omega 6 to Omega 3: Chicken has a better omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, supporting inflammation management when balanced with omega-3-rich foods, while turkey's lower omega-6 content makes it slightly less inflammatory overall.

• Micronutrients: Turkey is richer in selenium and niacin for immune, thyroid, and energy support, while chicken provides more vitamin B6 and phosphorus, benefiting brain, nervous system, and bone health. So ultimately turkey for immune and thyroid support, chicken for brain and bone health.

The other just important matters

• Flavor and Texture: Turkey’s distinct flavor makes it a standout at occasions like Thanksgiving, but it’s often overcooked due to its size and infrequent preparation, leading to dry meat. Chicken, being smaller, cooks more evenly, stays juicier, and is quicker to prepare—a great option unless you’re cooking for a large group.

• Practicality: For gatherings of more than 5 people, turkey is ideal, serving 1.5 pounds per person uncooked (1 pound cooked). A 15-pound turkey serves about 10 people. Chicken works better for smaller groups, serving 1 pound uncooked per person (0.75 pounds cooked), with a 5-pound chicken feeding about 4 people. Leftovers from turkey can be a bonus for meal prep.

• Cooking Time and Convenience: Turkey requires more time and attention, especially for larger gatherings. Chicken is faster and easier to cook, making it perfect for smaller groups or when simplicity matters.

Dan's Top Tips for Cooking the Perfect Bird

I am a big fan of keeping the tradition alive and having leftover turkey meat for meal prep anyway, but whether you choose turkey or chicken, here are three essential tips to ensure your bird is cooked to perfection:

1. Avoid Overstuffing: Overstuffing can prevent heat from reaching the center, leading to undercooked meat. Lightly stuff your bird to allow for even cooking.

2. Tie the Legs Together: Tying the legs helps retain heat and juices in the center, preventing the legs from overcooking.

3. Cook Low and Slow: Start cooking at a lower temperature to ensure the meat remains juicy, then increase the heat towards the end to achieve a crispy skin.

For more on how to cook the Turkey CLICK HERE

Recipe: The Meal Prep Pasta Bake 🍝

Macros: Protein 29g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 24g, Fiber 7g

1. Prep: Should take 20 minutes

2. Cook: Should take 45 minutes

Cook notes: 

Have the storage containers ready… as this one can set you up for an extra few meals for the week

Quick Notes

• 🎥 We dropped my Hyrox Chicago Youtube Episode. Would love to get your thoughts on the episode here 

• 🛌 It’s gift-giving season, and I love sharing products that truly benefit our health. WHOOP’s Cyber Sale is their biggest of the year—why not give a gift that is such a game-changer for our health & recovery? CLICK HERE to give the gift of WHOOP

• 📖 My most recent cook book Eat Like A Legend has been added to Amazon’s cyber week deals! if you want to take advantage of this for your holiday shopping click here!

• 💪 A few weeks ago I told you how much fiber I want you to aim for every day… the first person to tell me in grams this answer to my insta DM’s will win the Centr Vest

Happy thanksgiving to all of you and your legendary families!

DC

#EatGoodFeelGood